20-Day Ultimate Luxury Escapes & Epic Journeys in Lebanon
Lebanon is a land where ancient history and modern luxury collide in spectacular fashion. This 20-day itinerary is meticulously crafted for the discerning traveler who seeks to uncover the deep cultural layers of the Levant without compromising on comfort. You will navigate the country in premium private transport, dining at world-renowned restaurants and staying in opulent boutique properties that tell the story of Lebanon's golden age.
From the cosmopolitan energy of Beirut, often called the 'Paris of the Middle East,' to the serene heights of the Qadisha Valley, this epic journey offers a comprehensive exploration. Expect private access to UNESCO World Heritage sites, exclusive wine tastings in the Bekaa Valley, and sun-drenched afternoons at the country's most elite beach clubs. This is the definitive Lebanese luxury escape.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Beirut, Lebanon - The Grand Arrival
VIP Arrival at Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport
Enjoy a seamless transition with a private greeter and fast-track immigration service before your chauffeur whisks you away in a Mercedes S-Class.
Check-in at Hotel Albergo
Settle into Lebanon's most iconic Relais & Châteaux property, a 1930s mansion in the heart of the Achrafieh district, known for its Ottoman-era charm.
Zaitunay Bay Afternoon Stroll
Walk along the prestigious marina, admiring the yachts and the modern architecture of the Beirut Terraces.
Dinner at Em Sherif
Experience a multi-course Lebanese feast at this world-renowned fine-dining destination, where the decor is as exquisite as the mezzes.
Day 2: Beirut, Lebanon - Art & Heritage
Beirut National Museum
Take a private guided tour of the museum’s impressive collection of Phoenician sarcophagi and Byzantine mosaics.
Lunch at Liza Beirut
Dine in a stunning 19th-century palace in Achrafieh, where contemporary Lebanese cuisine meets breathtaking interior design.
Sursock Museum Visit
Explore this contemporary art museum housed in a magnificent villa that exemplifies the Lebanese aristocratic lifestyle of the early 20th century.
Sunset Cocktails at Iris Beirut
Enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline and the Mediterranean sea from one of the city's most fashionable rooftop lounges.
Day 3: Beirut, Lebanon - Coastal Sophistication
Raouche Rocks Boat Tour
Charter a private motorboat to cruise around the iconic Pigeons' Rock limestone formations at the edge of the city.
Hamra District Exploration
Wander through the intellectual heart of Beirut, visiting the American University of Beirut (AUB) campus with its lush botanical gardens.
Private Shopping in Downtown Beirut
Visit the Beirut Souks for luxury brands and stop by Orient 499 for high-end Lebanese handicrafts and artisanal fashion.
Fine Dining at Baron
Enjoy a sophisticated farm-to-table dinner at this Mar Mikhael hotspot, which consistently ranks among the best in the region.
Day 4: Byblos, Lebanon - The Ancient Phoenician Port
Private Transfer to Byblos
A short luxury drive north brings you to Jbeil (Byblos), one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
Byblos Archaeological Site
Explore the Crusader Castle and the ancient royal necropolis with a private historian who brings Phoenician myths to life.
Lunch at Bab El Mina
Savor fresh Mediterranean seafood at the historic harbor, where the catch of the day is served with traditional Lebanese flavors.
The Old Souk & Fossil Museum
Browse the charming cobblestone souks and visit the unique Memory of Time fossil museum for a rare souvenir.
Day 5: Beiteddine, Lebanon - Mountain Majesty
Journey to the Chouf Mountains
Ascend into the cool mountain air of the Chouf region, a stronghold of Druze culture and home to spectacular palaces.
Beiteddine Palace Tour
Marvel at the 19th-century masterpiece of Emir Bashir Shihab II, featuring intricate stone carvings and world-class mosaics.
Lunch at Mir Amin Palace
Dine on the terrace of a former royal residence, offering sweeping views of the valley and the Mediterranean in the distance.
Deir El Qamar Walk
Explore this perfectly preserved medieval village, known for its red-tiled roofs and the historic Fakhreddine Mosque.
Day 6: Barouk, Lebanon - The Cedar Sanctuary
Shouf Biosphere Reserve
Take a private guided nature walk through the largest cedar forest in Lebanon, home to trees that are thousands of years old.
Gourmet Mountain Picnic
Enjoy a luxury picnic prepared with local cheeses, wines, and organic produce in a secluded spot overlooking the reserve.
Moussa Castle Visit
Visit this unique architectural feat built by one man over 60 years, showcasing Lebanese life and history through life-sized dioramas.
Evening Relaxation
Return to your mountain palace for a traditional hammam session and a quiet dinner under the stars.
Day 7: Sidon, Lebanon - Medieval Markets
Sidon Sea Castle
Explore this 13th-century Crusader fortress built on a small island connected to the mainland by a stone causeway.
The Soap Museum (Audi Foundation)
Learn about the ancient tradition of olive oil soap making in a beautifully restored historic building.
Lunch at Rest House Saida
Enjoy traditional Lebanese cuisine in a grand vaulted stone hall overlooking the Mediterranean sea.
Khan al-Franj Exploration
Visit the 'Inn of the Foreigners,' a magnificent example of Ottoman architecture used by French merchants in the 17th century.
Day 8: Tyre, Lebanon - Roman Splendor
Tyre Al-Bass Archaeological Site
Marvel at the massive Roman Hippodrome and the grand triumphal arch in this UNESCO World Heritage city.
The Maritime Ruins
Explore the Egyptian Port and the intricate Roman baths located right on the edge of the crystal-clear waters.
Seafood Lunch at Al Fanar
Dine at this boutique guest house and restaurant located inside a lighthouse, offering the freshest catch in the South.
Beachside Relaxation
Spend the afternoon at Tyre's sandy nature reserve, widely considered the cleanest and most beautiful beach in Lebanon.
Day 9: Baalbek, Lebanon - Temples of the Sun
Drive to the Bekaa Valley
Cross the Mount Lebanon range into the fertile Bekaa Valley, the agricultural heart of the country.
Baalbek Archaeological Complex
Behold the Temple of Jupiter and the Temple of Bacchus, some of the most colossal and best-preserved Roman ruins in existence.
Authentic Sfiha Tasting
Try the famous meat pies (Sfiha) of Baalbek at a local institution, a must-eat culinary tradition of the region.
Stone of the Pregnant Woman
Visit the nearby quarry to see one of the largest monoliths ever quarried in antiquity.
Day 10: Zahle, Lebanon - Wine & Gastronomy
Château Ksara Wine Cellars
Tour the natural limestone caves discovered by Jesuit monks and enjoy a private tasting of Lebanon’s oldest winery.
Lunch along the Berdawni River
Experience the legendary hospitality of Zahle at an outdoor restaurant by the river, famous for its elaborate mezze spreads.
Château Kefraya Vineyard Visit
Head deeper into the valley for a tour of Kefraya's estate, known for its innovative blends and beautiful grounds.
Anjar Umayyad Ruins
On your way back, stop at Anjar to see the unique 8th-century inland commercial center built by the Umayyad caliphate.
Day 11: Bsharri, Lebanon - The Cedars of God
Ascent to the North
Travel to the highest inhabited village in Lebanon, Bsharri, the birthplace of the famous poet Khalil Gibran.
The Gibran Museum
Visit the museum housed in a former monastery, containing original paintings and the tomb of the 'Prophet' author.
Lunch with a View
Dine at a local restaurant overlooking the dramatic Qadisha Valley, serving traditional North Lebanese kibbeh.
Arz el-Rab Forest
Walk through the 'Cedars of God' forest, a small but ancient grove that is a protected UNESCO site.
Day 12: Qadisha Valley, Lebanon - The Sacred Valley
Monastery of St. Anthony Qozhaya
Descend into the valley to visit one of the oldest monasteries in the region, featuring the Middle East's first printing press.
Private Hike in the Valley
Take a gentle hike between hermitages carved into the cliffs, led by a local guide who knows the secret paths.
Lunch in Ehden
Head up to the beautiful summer resort town of Ehden for an outdoor lunch in the famous Midane (Square).
Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve
Explore the biodiverse forest of Ehden, home to rare plants and the endangered imperial eagle.
Day 13: Tripoli, Lebanon - Mamluk Heritage
Citadel of Raymond de Saint-Gilles
Explore this massive Crusader fortress that dominates the skyline of Lebanon's second-largest city.
The Old Souks & Hammams
Wander through the Mamluk-era souks, visiting the Al-Attarine (Perfumers) and the Al-Nouri Hammam.
Tripoli Street Food Tour
Sample the best Moghrabieh (Lebanese couscous) and the city's legendary sweets like Halawet el-Jibn.
Mina District Stroll
Visit the seaside district of Mina, known for its colorful houses and relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere.
Day 14: Batroun, Lebanon - Coastal Chic
Arrival in Batroun
Check into one of Lebanon's trendiest coastal towns, famous for its Phoenician wall and lemonade.
The Phoenician Sea Wall
Walk along the 225-meter long ancient wall that once protected the city from sea storms and invaders.
Lunch at Pierre & Friends
Dine at this chic beachside institution, known for its fresh fish and vibrant afternoon music.
Old City Exploration
Wander through the historic sandstone streets and visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral by the harbor.
Day 15: Batroun, Lebanon - Vines & Beach Clubs
Ixsir Winery Tour
Visit this award-winning eco-friendly winery located in a 17th-century bastion in the hills above Batroun.
Gourmet Lunch at Ixsir
Pair exceptional wines with contemporary Lebanese dishes on the winery's shaded terrace.
Colonel Reef Beach Club
Spend a relaxing afternoon at this premier beach club, featuring its own craft brewery and paddleboard rentals.
Dinner at Bolero
Enjoy a sophisticated dinner with views of the sea, specializing in grilled meats and Mediterranean appetizers.
Day 16: Anfeh, Lebanon - The Little Greece
Anfeh Village Exploration
Visit the white and blue painted 'Little Greece' of Lebanon, famous for its historic salt marshes and Byzantine churches.
Salt Pan Tour
Learn about the traditional methods of salt extraction that have been used here for centuries.
Lunch at Tahet El Rih
Dine directly on the rocks overlooking the turquoise water in a charming blue-and-white beach hut restaurant.
Smar Jbeil Citadel
Head slightly inland to see the ancient citadel of Smar Jbeil, offering panoramic views of the entire coastline.
Day 17: Jeita & Harissa, Lebanon - Caves & Heights
Jeita Grotto
Explore the world-famous limestone caves, including a magical boat ride on the subterranean lake in the lower cavern.
Lunch in Jounieh
Enjoy a classic Lebanese lunch in the bay of Jounieh before heading up the mountainside.
Our Lady of Lebanon (Harissa)
Take the Téléphérique (cable car) from Jounieh to the shrine at Harissa for stunning views of the bay.
Paragliding over Jounieh
For the adventurous, take a tandem paragliding flight from the mountains back down to the coast.
Day 18: Faqra, Lebanon - High Altitude History
Faqra Roman Ruins
Visit the 'Stone Forest' and the remarkably preserved Roman temples located at 1,500 meters above sea level.
Natural Bridge of Kfardebian
See the massive 38-meter natural limestone bridge, a geological marvel of the Mount Lebanon range.
Lunch at Chez Michel
Enjoy a high-end mountain feast at this legendary restaurant in Faqra, known for its fireplace and winter charm.
Spa Afternoon in Faraya
Unwind with a luxury spa treatment at one of the elite ski resorts, even if it's off-season.
Day 19: Beirut, Lebanon - The Final Indulgence
Late Breakfast at Al Falamanki
Enjoy a long, leisurely Lebanese breakfast under the trees at this iconic Raouche garden restaurant.
Luxury Shopping at ABC Verdun
Spend the afternoon at Lebanon's premier shopping mall, home to international designer brands and local luxury boutiques.
Hammam at Hotel Albergo
Experience the ultimate in relaxation with a private scrub and massage in the hotel's exquisite rooftop spa.
Farewell Dinner at Babel Bay
Toast to your journey with a modern seafood dinner at Zaitunay Bay, overlooking the twinkling lights of the marina.
Day 20: Beirut, Lebanon - Departure
Souvenir Shopping at Artisans du Liban
Pick up high-end, locally made textiles, jewelry, and home decor as lasting memories of your trip.
Corniche Walk
Take one last stroll along the Mediterranean promenade, soaking in the energy of the city.
Private Transfer to Airport
Your chauffeur will ensure you arrive in plenty of time for your flight, with assistance through the executive terminal.
Departure from Beirut
Relax in the Cedar Lounge before your flight home, reflecting on 20 days of Levantine luxury.
Best Time to Visit Lebanon
The ideal time for a luxury journey in Lebanon is during the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm, perfect for both coastal relaxation and mountain hiking, and the landscape is either lush with spring blooms or golden with the harvest. Summers (July and August) can be hot and humid on the coast but are the peak of the vibrant nightlife and festival season. Winter is perfect if you wish to combine luxury mountain stays with skiing, as Lebanon is one of the few places in the world where you can see the sea from the ski slopes.
Currency & Money
Lebanon uses the Lebanese Pound (LBP), but the US Dollar is widely accepted and often preferred in luxury hotels, high-end restaurants, and boutiques. Due to the ongoing economic situation, a dual-currency system is in place. It is highly recommended to carry fresh US Dollar banknotes in small denominations. While major luxury establishments accept international credit cards (often with a surcharge), cash remains king for smaller purchases and tipping. Tipping culture is significant; 10-15% is standard in restaurants, and it is customary to tip drivers and guides for their excellent service.
Getting Around Lebanon
For a luxury itinerary, private chauffeured transport is the only way to travel. Lebanon does not have a functional railway system or domestic flights. Traffic, especially in and out of Beirut, can be significant, so having a professional driver allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery. Many luxury hotels offer their own car services, or you can book premium SUVs through international agencies. For shorter distances within Beirut, high-end ride-sharing apps are available, but for intercity travel, a dedicated private guide and driver provide the most seamless and secure experience.
